Cleverly Solved & Flueblocker
Cleverly Solved helped a North Carolina homeowner stop chimney odors and summer downdrafts by recommending the correct Flueblocker size and providing a simple installation solution for an existing damper handle.
2 Fireplaces
affected by downdrafts
45 × 15-Inch Flueblocker
Chimney Odors
Project Overview
A North Carolina homeowner contacted Cleverly Solved for help with two wood-burning fireplaces that were allowing unpleasant soot and chimney odors into the home during the summer.
The homeowner had researched Flueblocker online but needed expert guidance before ordering. Their questions focused on whether the breathable wool would stop chimney odors, which size would fit an unusually wide fireplace opening, and how the product could be installed around an existing damper handle.
The Challenge
Summer downdrafts were carrying soot and chimney odors into the home through two wood-burning fireplaces.
The fireplace opening measured 11 inches deep by 43 inches wide, so the homeowner was unsure whether a standard Flueblocker would provide a secure fit or whether a custom product would be required.
The damper handle also extended into the area where the wool pad needed to sit. This created another installation concern because the handle could prevent the Flueblocker from fitting properly.
The homeowner also wanted confirmation that the breathable wool material would still block the airflow responsible for carrying odors into the room.
Key Challenges
Summer downdrafts bringing chimney odors into the home
Two wood-burning fireplaces affected
Unusually wide 11-by-43-inch opening
Damper handle crossing the installation area
Uncertainty about whether a standard size would fit
Need to block odors without trapping moisture
The Solution
Cleverly Solved reviewed the fireplace measurements and recommended a 45-by-15-inch stock-size Flueblocker.
A slightly oversized wool pad was selected intentionally. The additional width allowed the product to compress into the fireplace opening and create the pressure fit needed to form an effective air barrier.
Cleverly Solved also explained that the coarse wool could wick moisture while still restricting the airflow that carried chimney odors into the home.
To accommodate the damper handle, the homeowner was advised to cut a small slit in the wool pad using scissors. This allowed the handle to pass through while the rest of the Flueblocker remained securely positioned.
Solution Highlights:
- Fireplace measurements reviewed before ordering
- Correct stock-size Flueblocker recommended
- Oversized wool pad used to create a pressure fit
- Breathable wool helped manage moisture while blocking airflow
- Simple slit added around the existing damper handle
- Installation guidance supported with a reference photo
The Results
The homeowner installed the Flueblocker easily, despite the wide fireplace opening and the position of the damper handle.
Once fitted, the wool pad created a secure barrier that stopped chimney odors from entering the home through the fireplace. The homeowner did not need to order a custom product or make permanent changes to the fireplace.
The customer reported being very satisfied with the product, the installation process, and the guidance provided by Cleverly Solved.
Key Results:
- Chimney odors stopped from entering the home
- Summer downdraft problem successfully addressed
- Flueblocker fitted securely in the existing opening
- Damper handle accommodated with a simple adjustment
- No custom-sized product required
- Customer satisfied with the product and support
Key Takeaways
This project shows how accurate sizing and practical installation guidance can solve common chimney odor and downdraft problems without costly fireplace modifications.
A slightly oversized wool pad creates a stronger pressure fit
For more than 21 years, Cleverly Solved has helped homeowners and contractors across all 50 states solve chimney draft, heat loss, and odor problems with practical products such as Flueblocker.